If you are expanding or creating a business in industries such as distribution, you may need to source a range of equipment including forklifts. Finding solutions for your equipment needs can seem like a difficult obstacle, especially in the early stages of a new venture or expansion project. However, it is possible to break the process of sourcing forklifts into three easy steps.

Selecting your type of forklift

The first step in sourcing forklifts is to work out exactly what type of forklift your business needs. There are several different varieties of forklift available, depending on the needs of your particular business.

The most common type of forklift truck is counterbalance. These are the standard type of equipment that most people picture when they think of forklift trucks, with the forks protruding from the front of the machine.

Another variety, the three-wheeled counterbalance forklift, works to the same principles but has greater maneuverability. Counterbalance trucks will suit most businesses. However, there are also a range of forklifts on the market with specialized purposes, such as side-loading trucks for very long loads.

You will also need to consider what kind of fuel you would like your forklift to use. Forklifts are available that use petrol, diesel or electricity. Electric forklifts benefit from a readily-available fuel source, but petrol or diesel machines are more powerful and better-suited to outdoor use.

Finding a supplier

Once you have decided what type of forklift you need, you will then have to identify a supplier of forklifts.

You may want to purchase forklifts if you have a sufficient investment budget and can securely see a long-term need. However, the considerable majority of businesses will find it better to hire forklifts. This is a more financially manageable and flexible solution. A wide range of companies, such as BS forklift hire, can provide a range of forklifts and rental options to suit the needs of your business.

Forklift operation

Once you have secured your forklifts, the final step will be to ensure that they will be properly and safely used on your premises.

Above all, it is vital that forklifts are only operated by qualified personnel. A range of affordable training courses are available if you want to train existing staff to operate forklifts or provide training to a new recruit who is not already qualified. You may also want to provide ongoing training to ensure that forklift operators within your business remain up-to-date in their skills.

It is also a good idea to set some forklift safety rules, especially if forklifts will be operating on the same floor as pedestrians. Ensure that all staff are aware of forklifts and instructed to keep clear of moving machines. It might also be a good idea to encourage certain safety rules among drivers. For example, if they are approaching a corner, it is a good idea to sound their horns so that people know they are coming. It is also usually wise to ensure that forklifts are not left unattended, even temporarily, unless the engine has been switched off and the platform lowered.